Working overseas is what many people dream of. It is more than just the work, it is the travel, the adventure, the challenge and for many the chance to earn more money. But how can you improve your chances of getting a job overseas? There are a number of ways to improve your chances of working overseas. There is also one sure thing that will put you in the running more than others.

Get the facts: The first thing to do is get as much information as you can about the country, city or company you wish to work for overseas. If you are already employed in the company and are eyeing an overseas position having as much information as possible about the country and city is still vitally important. By having the information you will be well equipped to answer any questions that may arise. Being able to answer the question “why do you want to work in this country?” with facts and something that will show are taking it seriously will help you.

Network: There is a very good chance that you know someone working overseas in the country you wish to work in. Using social media reach out and start asking questions. Let people in the places you want to work know that you are looking and keep in touch. This way when a job does come up you will spring to mind.

Know the industry or job well: Knowing the industry you are working in or wish to work well will often increase your chances of a getting a job overseas. Many big companies employ many foreign nationals in many countries; there is something to be said for a diversity of cultures. However, knowing the industry or the role you wish to work in well will make you stand out from others. Overseas work is highly competitive and not all roles are equal, normal job hunting rules do not apply.

The one sure thing? Language. Language. LanguageThe word language has been repeated three times for a reason. Speaking the language, showing you have taken or are taking the time to learn another language is the number one way to improve your chances of getting an overseas job. You may be Australian, have great friends in France and be a great systems architect but if you cannot speak French then you stand less of chance of getting that job in the Paris office over the person who speaks French. Even someone learning French has a better chance.

A job overseas is not just about doing the work and hoping those you work with speak your language, primarily English. An overseas Job means living in the country and conversing with locals of which a large number may not speak your language. By speaking the language, you automatically become a better fit for job, having taken the time to learn you have shown determination and dedication to further yourself and many employers are looking for this. Speaking French, German, Polish or any other language automatically opens up, and yes maybe improves, your chances of getting that dream job overseas. With a language, you become valuable; companies are looking for you rather than you looking for them.

In short, if you want to leapfrog yourself into a job overseas go and learn a new language. You will not regret it.